Ranchhodrai Temple Dakor

This ancient riverbank temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, worshipped here as Ranchhodrai, and also houses shrines for Lakshmi, Garuda, Radha, Trikamji, and Danknath Mahadev.

The temple’s modern structure was built by Gokuldas Tejpal and is recognized as a state heritage and living heritage temple, drawing devotees from across India. The temple is open daily from 6:45 AM to 12:00 PM and again from 4:00 PM to 7:30 PM.

Devotees can participate in a series of poojas and darshans, including Mangla Darshan & Aarti (6:45 AM – 8:30 AM), Balbhog, Shrungarbhog & Gwalbhog (9:00 AM – 10:30 AM), Rajbhog Darshan & Aarti (11:30 AM – 12:00 PM), Utthapan Darshan & Aarti (4:10 PM – 4:55 PM), Shaynbhog Darshan & Aarti (5:25 PM – 6:00 PM), and Sakhdibhog/Shakhdibhog Darshan (7:00 PM – 7:30 PM).

Rituals are conducted in Gujarati and Sanskrit, preserving the temple’s spiritual traditions. Darshan at Ranchhodrai Temple Dakor is accessible to all, with both free darshan and a special darshan option (INR 500).

The temple observes a strict dress code: men are expected to wear traditional or formal Indian attire, while women should opt for sarees, salwar kameez, or modest suits. Western and revealing outfits are discouraged.

The temple is especially vibrant during major festivals such as Phagni Poonam (Holi/Amalaka Ekadashi), Sharad Purnima, Annakoot (Govardhan Puja/Gujarati New Year), Krishna Janmashtami & Nand Mahotsav, Rath Yatra, and Tulsi Vivah.

The best time to visit is during winter (November to February), early mornings, or during festival seasons. Reaching Dakor is convenient from Ahmedabad via NH 47 or through Nadiad/Mehmedabad, and from Vadodara via State Highway 60.

The temple is about 1.5 km from Dakor Railway Station, with auto-rickshaws and local transport available. The nearest airports are Vadodara Airport (78 km) and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad (91 km).

Designated parking is available outside the main market, and special entry gates assist senior citizens and differently-abled visitors.

Nearby attractions include Gomti Lake, Chitrakoot Ramji Temple, Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Vadtal, Kotyark Dham, Galteshwar Mahadev Temple, and Santram Mandir in Nadiad. Accommodation options range from Shreeji Sadan and Hotel DMD to Adarsh Resort and budget ashrams near the temple and bus stand.

Signature prasadam such as Ghari, Boondi/Laddoo, and Rasmalai are offered, with large-scale annadanam during Annakoot festival and regular food distribution managed by local trusts. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple complex and inner sanctum. For more information, visit the official website or contact the temple directly. Online darshan is also available.